Under pressure? Stress and coping in adolescents during preparation for the Leaving Certificate

Abstract

Introduction: This study explores the concepts and experiences of stress and coping for adolescents who are preparing to sit the Irish Leaving Certificate examinations. Methodology: An Inductive Thematic Analysis approach (Braun & Clarke, 2013; informed by the work of Charmaz, 2006) was used to analyse the data. Methods: Data was collected using semi-structured focus groups. Participants were senior cycle students from three schools in the South Dublin area. Findings: Findings suggest that adolescents understand the concepts of stress and coping at a high level but may have difficulty in conceptualising them in detail. Themes that were extracted from the data included 'Stress as a Feeling' and 'Growing Up' in relation to the topic of stress, and 'Carrying On' and 'Things Others Could Do' in relation to the topic of coping. Conclusion: Limitations, suggestions for future research, and possible policy considerations are offered based on the findings.